Ukraine Needs Our Support Now More Than Ever

Art: Sabrine Uddin

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By STEFANIE RYKHLO and ANNA MIROSHNYK

On February 24, 2022, Ukraine was invaded by the Russian military. As the devastating news spread across the world, an unimaginable tragedy unfolded. For over three years, the Ukrainian people have faced persistent attacks, horrific losses, and massive destruction. The Russian-Ukrainian war has not only transformed Ukraine, it has also had a significant impact on communities abroad, including students at Midwood High School.

Many Ukrainian students carry the weight of uncertainty as they see their homeland struggle. The fear of waking up to heartbreaking news regarding a loved one is a daily reality. “I stay in touch with my grandparents from Ukraine a lot,” said Anastasiia Savchyn ‘26. “There've been bombs dropped near them and many airstrike warnings recently. It's hard knowing my loved ones are in danger.”

“This situation has been very difficult since I was born [in Ukraine] myself and all my relatives live there,” said Michelle Botvinsky ’26. “Seeing and hearing what is happening there has been extremely difficult and has caused a huge emotional toll on all of us.”

The war in Ukraine is not new; it is the result of years of tension and conflict with Russia. The annexation of Crimea by Russia in 2014 drew international attention and resulted in a conflict in the eastern provinces, Donetsk and Luhansk. Since then, Ukraine has fought to keep its sovereignty. 

“My whole family was shocked that the war sparked into something so big,” said Sofiia Grinevich ‘28. “I assumed it would just be a few weeks, but then the war escalated to the west, and I knew my family would be affected then.”

“It's sad knowing thousands of Ukrainian troops have died, never returning back to their families, and some disappearing or being held in Russian captivity, starved and beaten,” said Savchyn. “These men would have had normal lives attending university to achieve their dream professions, but instead they are being trained how to operate tanks.”

While Midwood students experience the emotional hardship of being away from home, their connection to Ukraine remains unbroken. With each day, the distress about their loved ones' safety and their hometowns grows larger. 

“Me and my friends open social media to check the news in Ukraine, just hoping something didn't happen near where our families live,” said Anna Vinokour ‘26.

"I feel bad sometimes because I'm safe here, but my friends and family have to live with bomb threats and air raids," said Angelina Maiorov '25. "I wish there was more I could do to help."

Due to their economic crisis, the Ukrainian government has relied on international financing to keep essential services running. The U.S. initially provided strong assistance, sending billions of dollars in aid packages, military equipment, and humanitarian help. However, as the war continues, the political perspective has shifted. President Donald Trump has proposed that the United States withdraw its financial aid and military assistance to Ukraine. Trump's changing stance, from strong support to help end this war to questioning ongoing aid, shows the deeper divisions in American politics about U.S. involvement. 

“The aid they get provides faith that Ukraine is not fighting alone,” said Savchyn. “I hope the U.S. keeps supporting Ukraine because we do benefit from it. Without help, we should be concerned about what can happen next.”

So what's the solution? The war in Ukraine has reached a critical point, and continuing the fight will just result in more damage and instability, not just in Ukraine but worldwide. The U.S. and its allies must continue to provide military and financial assistance to Ukraine while pursuing diplomatic conversations. Increasing economic sanctions on Russia while giving Ukraine the means to defend itself is one way to move forward. This would enable Ukraine to approach negotiations from a position of strength, ensuring that any peace discussions are fair.

Ukrainian students are also fighting for greater recognition of their heritage, specifically during this rough patch. “I have heard many students attempt to have a festival for Europeans, along the lines of Kwanzaa, Asian, and Caribbean Fest,” said Botvinsky. “I believe that people forget about our culture and the traditions that most don't share in common. It would be fun to have them represented in our school.” 

Students should work to advocate for a broader understanding of Eastern European traditions in school to honor their history while also raising awareness about the current conflict.

“Every country in Europe is different and unique in its own way. For instance, Ukraine does not share the same culture as France, though they’re in the same continent,” said Mariella Pinsky ‘26. “Starting a European Fest can bring light to the current three year struggle.”

"It would mean so much to see our culture represented," stated Daria Mukhina '27. "We have unique dances, music, and food that few people are aware of. A European festival will bring attention to our difficulties and identities."

Looking ahead, Ukraine will encounter big challenges in its recovery. Their government has expressed its intentions to modernize infrastructure and deepen ties with the European Union, but these efforts will be dependent on continuous global support. Ukraine cannot recover and establish a better future while under continual threat from Russian aggression.

“I hope that one day Ukraine will be free again,” said Botvinsky. “I envision my country rebuilt and peaceful so I could go back soon. We've gone through a lot, but we're strong. I believe Ukraine will recover from this.”

“I just can't wait to hear that the war has completely come to an end. I want to visit my family as soon as I get the chance to,” said Savchyn.

The war continues, but so does the resilient spirit of those affected by it. The fight for Ukraine is about preserving democracy, human rights, and sovereignty around the world. The Ukrainian people have demonstrated incredible strength. However, they cannot stand alone. The international community must make sure that the promise of peace is fulfilled and should remain consistent in its support for Ukraine's freedom, security, and independent future.